Sirius strode confidently into the Vermillion Chrysanthemum Merchant Guild. His first order of business was to purchase several sets of clothing. While his casual attire offered comfort, he knew it might lead others to underestimate him. Sirius understood the world of merchants and aristocrats all too well—they judged based on appearance, demeanor, and subtle nuances. Once he changed into a refined, polished outfit, he approached the receptionist with a calm, composed demeanor.
"I'd like to auction some items," Sirius stated evenly.
The receptionist greeted him with a professional smile. "May I know what you wish to offer?"
Sirius placed two small boxes on the counter. "Ice Spirit Pills infused with Ice Spirit energy and top-quality Earth Dragon Pills," he replied. Inside the boxes were four Ice Spirit Pills and two Earth Dragon Pills.
As the medicinal aroma escaped the boxes, the receptionist's expression shifted to one of astonishment. These pills were clearly of extraordinary quality. Grade Two and Grade Three Pills were rare commodities, typically reserved for high-profile auctions. Her tone grew more respectful as she said, "Please wait a moment. I'll call for our expert."
Sirius gave a silent nod, maintaining his composed exterior. Moments later, a middle-aged man arrived, his chest adorned with a Grade Three Alchemist Badge. He carefully examined the pills, his expression growing increasingly impressed as he assessed their quality.
"These are exceptional," the man said, his voice tinged with admiration. "Each pill will start at twenty thousand silver coins. May I ask how you came by such remarkable creations? The freshness is evident from their fragrance."
Without a word, Sirius produced his own alchemist badge.
The man's eyes widened in disbelief. "A Grade Two Alchemist at your age? Remarkable," he said, nodding in approval. "Young man, you're in luck. We have an auction scheduled for tonight, and I'm certain the Frost family will be particularly interested in your Ice Spirit Pills. Here, take this VIP card. It grants you access to our facilities as a distinguished guest."
Sirius accepted the card with a slight nod, his calm demeanor betraying a hint of satisfaction.
With the arrangements made, Sirius turned his attention to his next task—shopping. He browsed the guild's extensive inventory, purchasing rare medicinal ingredients, ores, metals, and even casual weapons and armor. These items would serve to strengthen the Arya Clan, a necessity given that he knew the Lagan Clan would soon set its plans into motion.
After completing his purchases, Sirius left the merchant guild and secured a room at a nearby inn. Once inside, he began setting up a mana-gathering formation, using talismans instead of Spirit Stones. Carefully placing them beneath the floorboards, he murmured to himself, "Consider this a small gift for the room."
With the formation complete, Sirius settled into cultivation. The intense focus required for alchemy and talisman crafting had drained his energy, and he needed to recover. After an hour of practice, he rose to his feet, his energy replenished. "Time to head to the auction," he said to himself.
Returning to the Vermillion Chrysanthemum Merchant Guild, Sirius presented his VIP card to the receptionist and inquired about the auction hall's location. Following her directions, he entered the grand hall and made his way to the private room designated for him, ready for the evening's events to unfold.
The auction started smoothly. There were rare herbs, ores, and metals for starters. Most of them were taken by alchemists and master smiths. Sirius also bought a few. Then came a few mystic arts, pill formulas, and formation blueprints. Sirius wasn't interested in them. The ones he obtained from the storage rings from the Legacy Monument were far superior, and the ones he had from his memories of his previous life were like divine techniques in comparison.
Then came unique weapons, medicinal pills, and talismans. Sirius's pills were also there. His Ice Spirit Pills and Earth Dragon Pills collectively got him eighty-four thousand silver coins.